What Is Typhoid?

Typhoid, or typhoid fever, is a serious and potentially fatal illness caused by specific bacteria.

Typhoid can be prevented by a vaccine. Although the typhoid vaccine is effective, it cannot prevent 100% of typhoid infections.

Typhoid fever does occur within the US however, it is more common in developing countries where water is likely to be contaminated by bacteria. It is important, particularly when traveling in Asia, Africa, and Latin America, to be aware of possible bacteria contamination of food and water.

The bacterium
is contracted through drinking water that has been contaminated with sewage. It can also be ingested by eating food that has been washed in bacteria-laden water.

The most common symptoms of typhoid include:

High fever, usually up to 103-104 degrees°F (39.4-40.0°C)

Weakness

Fatigue

Stomach pains

Loss of appetite

Headache

Rash

Typhoid is treated with antibiotics. Without treatment, fever and symptoms may continue for weeks or months, and death may occur as a result of complications from the bacterial infection.

What Is the Typhoid Vaccine?

There are 2 types of typhoid vaccines:

An inactivated vaccine that is injected

A live, weakened vaccine given orally

The inactivated vaccine is given as a shot. It should not be given to children younger than 2 years old. A single dose should be given at least 14 days before traveling abroad. Booster shots are needed every 2 years for those who continue to be in parts of the world where they would be exposed to typhoid fever.

The live typhoid vaccine is given orally. It should not be given to children younger than 6 years old. Four doses, with a day
separating each dose, are needed. A booster dose is needed every 5 years.

Who Should Get Vaccinated and When?

Although the typhoid vaccine is not given routinely in the US, the following individuals should be vaccinated:

People who are traveling to areas outside the US where typhoid commonly exists

People who are in close contact with an individual who has or carries typhoid

People who work with
the bacterium—typically laboratory workers

Boosters of the inactive vaccine are required every 2 years for people at risk of contracting typhoid, and every 5 years for those at risk who take the oral vaccine.

For maximum effectiveness, the vaccine should be taken 2-3 weeks prior to the potential exposure of the bacterium.

Revision Information

This content is reviewed regularly and is updated when new and relevant evidence is made available. This information is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with questions regarding a medical condition.